Suicide and self-harm guidance for schools in Wales

The Welsh Government has published new Suicide and Self-harm guidance to support teachers and professionals who regularly come into contact with young people.

The guidance focusses on early intervention and the safe management of self-harm and suicidal thoughts when they arise.

The guidance will provide a quick and accessible source to the principles of best practice and signposts to other sources of support and advice.

Speaking at a visit to Samaritans in Cardiff, the Minister for Education, Kirsty Williams said: “Any suicide is one too many, a tragedy that touches family, friends and the whole community. It is imperative we continue to encourage open discussions with children and young people about their mental health.

“This new guidance will support staff who have direct contact with young people to provide effective support and have those, often difficult, conversations which could ultimately end up saving a life.”

The National Advisory Group (NAG) on suicide and self-harm has been working with experts from academia to develop guidance for schools on how to talk about suicide and self-harm with their pupils. Professor Ann John of Swansea University has worked with colleagues on the NAG, young people, Mind-Ed and elsewhere within education and health to produce this guidance.

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